J Am Dent Assoc. 2017 Apr 27. pii: S0002-8177(17)30206-4. doi: 10.1016/j.adaj.2017.02.054. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
The
authors clarified the causal mechanisms underlying the high prevalence
of dental disease encountered in people who habitually use
methamphetamine (meth).
METHODS:
Using
a stratified sampling approach, the authors conducted comprehensive
oral examinations and psychosocial assessments for 571 study
participants who used meth. Three calibrated dentists, who used National
Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) protocols,
characterized the study participants' dental disease. The authors also
collected data related to study participants' history of meth use and
other attributes linked to dental disease.
RESULTS:
Study
participants who used meth manifested higher rates of xerostomia and
caries experience compared with NHANES control participants.
Participants who used meth had a higher level of daily consumption of
sugary beverages compared with NHANES control participants. Smoking meth
did not increase caries experience over other modes of intake. Dental
hygiene was a significant determinant of dental health outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS:
Mode
of intake and frequency of meth use have a minimal impact on dental
health outcomes. Behaviors, such as sugary beverage consumption and poor
oral hygiene, better explain dental health outcomes.
PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS:
Having
a better understanding of the causal mechanisms of "meth mouth" sets
the stage for clinicians to provide more personalized interventions and
management of dental disease in people who use meth.
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